Pres. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is seeking P8.67 billion for scholarship programs under the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in the proposed 2027 national budget, up 4.34% from the previous year.
The proposed allocation is P360 million higher than the 2026 funding and is expected to support 67,504 scholars nationwide, compared with 65,097 beneficiaries this year.
Of the total, P7.55 billion would go to the DOST-Science Education Institute for undergraduate and graduate scholarships and specialized training programs.
The remaining P1.12 billion would be allocated to the Philippine Science High School System for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education at the secondary level.
Presidential Communications Office undersecretary and Palace press officer Claire Castro said the funding increase reflects the government’s recognition of the role of scientists, researchers, and innovators in national development.
“Sa pamamagitan nito, naipapakita ng Pangulo ang pagpapahalaga ng pamahalaan sa mahalagang papel ng Filipino scientists, researchers at innovators sa research, innovation, policy-making, national competitiveness at pagresolba sa mga pangunahing hamon ng bansa,” Castro said during a Palace briefing.
She also encouraged students to apply for the government scholarships.
“Kaya sa ating mga kabataan inaanyayahan po kayo na mag-apply for scholarship; kailangan po kayo ng bayan at laging mag-aral, yan po ang nais ng Pangulo,” Castro said.
